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Edward
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Saint Edward the Martyr, silver penny, 10th century; in the British Museum
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Quick Facts
Byname:
Saint Edward the Martyr
Born:
c. 963
Died:
March 18, 978, Corfe, Eng.
Title / Office:
king (975-978), England
Notable Family Members:
father Edgar
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Saint Edward the Martyr, silver penny, 10th century; in the British Museum
Saint Edward the Martyr, silver penny, 10th century; in the British Museum

Edward

king of England [circa 963–978]
Also known as: Saint Edward the Martyr
Written and fact-checked by
Britannica Editors
Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree....
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History

Edward (born c. 963—died March 18, 978, Corfe, Eng.; feast day March 18) was the king of England from 975 to 978. His reign was marked by a reaction against the promonastic policies of his father and predecessor, King Edgar (reigned 959–975). Upon Edgar’s death a faction sought to win the throne for his younger son, Ethelred, but Edward was quickly elected king. He evidently played little part in the antimonastic reaction, which was led by Aelfhere, ealdorman of Mercia. Edward was assassinated while visiting Ethelred in Corfe. Although Ethelred succeeded to the throne, it is not known whether he and his mother Aelfthryth (Edward’s stepmother) had a hand in the murder of his brother. Edward was widely mourned; his remains were said to produce miracles, and his cult was promoted by King Canute.

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